The Raykovics Family
"Being a host family with ETC has been one of the best and most enriching experiences we have ever had. Beginning in 2012, we hosted our first student, a German girl named Katie. This opened the door for the next seven years of hosting amazing kids. We have hosted students from Germany, France, Japan, Korea, Italy, and Spain. Each one has brought adventure, insight, and joy to our family. Our daughters have grown up hosting exchange students and have grown in their knowledge of the world. They have also grown in their ability to welcome others into our home, show compassion, and share what they have. They now have family all over the world where they feel connected. Our oldest was able to visit Katie in Germany recently and they picked up right where they left off.
Each year we get to go sightseeing in our home town, share the experience of all the "first times", have great conversations that go beyond the surface, and open our hearts to these great kids. How often do you get to share your life with someone so eager and willing to be a part of your world?
We cannot put into words the fun and fulfillment we have experienced by being a host family. It is not always easy but it is so worth it, for the students who come full of curiosity and for the families who accept the challenge to open our homes to these strangers who become family. Our lives are forever richer for saying yes".